Lindsey Davison - Moon Milan & Beyond: With the Italian Lakes: Day Trips, Local Spots, Strategies to Avoid Crowds

LINDSEY DAVISON

Only in Milan can you step outside of a 4th-century church to find a narrow alleyway covered in street art, with all-you-can-eat sushi restaurants next to aperitivo bars, and edgy concept stores next to stores selling handmade leather goods. If Rome is the Italian city of history, and Florence is the Italian city of art, then Milan is the Italian city of design, diversity, and opportunity. Milan offers classic Italian culture, from Gothic churches and Renaissance art to pizzerias, wine bars, and gelato; but its also the only city in Italy that blends its historic heritage with modernism and internationalism in equal measure.

The city center is rich with historic sights, from the Duomo to La Scala, but the uniqueness of the city lies in the different cultures and communities that make up the individual neighborhoods and districts. Between all of them, its easy for any visitor to find a little corner that feels almost like a home away from home.

Traveling just an hour or two outside of the city gives you access to some of the most beautiful and charming lakes in the world. The villages dotting the shores of Lake Como provide old-world charm and idyllic views. The lush and colorful islands of Lake Maggiore take you back to another time in Italian history, and the king of lakes, Lake Garda, offers a little bit of everything from mountain views and sandy beaches to Roman ruins and wine villages. For a bit more tranquility with just as much charm and beauty, head to the smaller lakes in the region like Lake Molveno, Lake Orta, and Lake Iseo.

Regardless of your interests, youre bound to find something to suit you hereno other region blends history with modernity and cosmopolitan glamour with natural beauty in quite the same way.

Getting an unparalleled aerial view of Milan and its bustling piazzas and streets from the roof of the

Strolling down the in Milan, and popping into the little boutiques and concept stores by up-and-coming designers.

Mingling with locals, sipping on cocktails, and nibbling on finger foods during a lively hour.

Admiring Leonardo da Vincis famous mural painting and one of Milans stand-out sights. Dont forget to reserve your tickets far in advance.

Shopping til you drop in Milan: From luxury Italian clothing and shoes on , theres something for every taste and budget.

taking a ferry from one charming, postcard-perfect town to another.

Losing yourself in the old-world charm of the of Lake Maggiore, with their colorful and lush Italian gardens and glamorous palazzos.

Sipping a glass of Franciacorta wine at one of the along the Franciacorta wine road near Lake Iseo.

Discovering the range of outdoor activities at .

Enjoying a gelato on a shaded bench and people-watching in the heart of Orta San Giulio, a medieval town on the shores of Lake Orta.

the turquoise waters of Lake Molveno, where there are no large motorized boats to disrupt your peace and quiet.

Riding up to the top of a mountain, whether on the by Lake Molveno, to take in the glorious panoramic views of the Italian lakes.

Picnicking on the manicured green lawns of right by the glacial blue waters of Lake Lugano, with the beautiful Swiss Alps as a backdrop.

To get a taste of the city and a lakeside getaway, spend two days in Milan and two days on Lake Como. With this itinerary, only public transportation is needed.

DAY 1:

Spend your first day in Milan by the city center, where you can visit some of the major sights and soak in the citys bustling atmosphere.

Start your day off with an espresso and a sweet pastry at a local caf in the city center.

Stroll down Via Montenapoleone, window-shopping at the flagship stores for some of the most prominent Italian fashion brands such as Prada, Gucci, and Valentino.

Head to Piazza del Duomo, then spend an hour or two exploring the roof of the Duomo, where you can catch unparalleled views of the city from above.

Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants surrounding the Duomo, such as upscale Berton or the traditional A Santa Lucia.

One day: Stick to Milans busy Duomo district, which is full of stunning historic attractions. If you have time, take a short walk to Milans Sforza Castle, then stroll through Parco Sempione.